Late in the process of creating each issue, we have an important ritual, the layout review or “wall walk.” Before the coronavirus pandemic, it was an in-person team review of…
Turn of cloth is familiar to most garment sewers and quilters. Whenever fabric is folded, some of its width is taken up by the fold. A fabric folded in half…
Turn of cloth is familiar to most garment sewers and quilters. Whenever fabric is folded, some of its width is taken up by the fold. A fabric folded in half…
A straight, or pencil skirt is a wardrobe staple, thanks to its versatility, timelessness, and—when it fits just right—flattering silhouette. Any figure type can be showcased in a straight skirt,…
I received the most amazing gift five years ago. I was helping an elderly friend clear her apartment of things she no longer had room for. We spent a happy…
Sewers through the centuries have always needed the means to mark stitching lines, fold hems, flatten seams, and perform other basic tasks in garment construction. Over time, implements were invented…
Hands-free video control If you have ever experienced the frustration of trying to keep up with an online sewing video while you learn a new technique, the Vidami Video Looper…
Jude Jowilson knew at an early age, while sewing at his grandmother’s side in the Philippines, fashion was in his future. “When I was 14 or 15, I made my…
My body is asymmetrical due to scoliosis, and photos help me understand fit. I took photos in close-fitting clothes and printed them. I then made a personal croquis by cutting…
READERS’ QUESTIONS – EXPERT ANSWERS Q: Can you help me with fitting adjustments for people with scoliosis or other body curvatures? My son has extremely uneven shoulders, different length sides,…
READERS’ QUESTIONS – EXPERT ANSWERS Q: What exactly is a fabric’s “hand”? Is there a scientific way to describe or quantify it? —Natalie Burch, via email A: The Threads editors…
When it comes to dyeing, there is one thing you must know about your fabric: fiber content. The chemical makeup of the fiber determines which types of dyes can be…
If you love the free-form look and fun hues of tie-dye, consider applying the technique to a fabric that’s more sophisticated than a cotton T-shirt: Try dyeing pure silk. I’ll…
A feminine design with interesting bodice details, Butterick 6761 offers two sleeveless dresses of midcalf length. Each has a fitted bodice and gathered skirt, making each option a smart basic…
A circa 1966 French shift walks the line between whimsy and sophistication, with its embroidered sequin motifs of varied sizes. The oversized sequins, applied in scattered concentric circles, catch the…
When you feature patch pockets on a garment that doesn’t lend itself to visible topstitching, the usual method is to line the pocket, then hand-sew it in place. A hand-sewn…